Bo Bichette (TOR) Under 1.5 Hits (-263)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
As the Cubs host the Mets tonight, all eyes will be on Bo Bichette, but bettors might want to consider the "Under" for his hits total at 1.5. Bichette has been facing a tough stretch, hitting just .220 over the past week against right-handed pitching. The Cubs’ starter, with an impressive WHIP of 1.10, has been especially effective at neutralizing hitters in the first five innings, boasting a striking 3.00 ERA.
Moreover, the Mets' offense has cooled off recently, making it hard for any player to find consistent rhythm. When Bichette squared off against similarly tough pitchers this season, he's often struggled to string together hits, averaging just half a hit per game in such matchups. With the wind potentially favoring the pitchers at Wrigley, and Bichette's recent form in mind, expecting him to be held to one hit or fewer seems like the smart play here.
Nick Martinez (CIN) Under 4.5 Strikeouts (-156)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
As the Pirates gear up to face the Rays, all eyes will be on Nick Martinez's strikeout potential. While Martinez has shown flashes of brilliance, his recent outings indicate that he struggles to rack up K's against disciplined lineups like Tampa Bay's. The Rays boast one of the lowest strikeout rates in baseball, consistently making contact and capitalizing on pitches.
In his last few starts, Martinez has averaged just over two strikeouts per game, a stark contrast to the 4.5 line set for this matchup. With Tampa’s patience at the plate and Martinez’s tendency to pitch to contact, the under feels like a wise play here. The Pirates' offense might not give him enough run support either, potentially keeping him on a shorter leash. All signs point to a night where Martinez's strikeout numbers fall short, making the under a compelling choice in this intriguing duel.
Aaron Judge (NYY) Under 1.5 Hits (-244)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
As the Yankees square off against the Royals, all eyes will be on Aaron Judge, but don't be surprised if he struggles to find his rhythm at the plate tonight. The big slugger has been facing some fierce pitching lately, and with Kansas City's starter showing impressive form, the odds might not be in Judge's favor.
Consider that the Royals' pitching staff has been quietly effective, especially against right-handed hitters. Judge's recent performance reflects a troubling trend, where he’s been hitting well under the radar. In the past week, he’s averaged less than one hit per game, a stark reminder that even the best can have off nights.
With Judge projected to record just 0.61 hits, the under on 1.5 seems like the play. As the game unfolds, the Royals' steady arms might just keep Judge grounded this time around.
Daylen Lile (NA) Under 1.5 Hits (-278)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
As the Washington Nationals gear up to host the San Francisco Giants, all eyes will be on Daylen Lile. While he has shown promise this season, the matchup against the Giants’ pitching staff presents a challenge. San Francisco’s ace has been particularly tough on left-handed batters, limiting them to a minuscule .220 average.
Lile, who has been inconsistent at the plate, faces a tall order given the Giants' recent surge in strikeouts against lefties and their ability to stifle opposing offenses. With his recent performance dipping—recording just one hit in his last three games—betting the under on 1.5 hits seems prudent. Given the Giants’ strong bullpen and Lile's struggles, it’s likely we won’t see him find success at the plate. Expect a tight game where Lile’s hit total falls short, making the under a compelling play in this intriguing matchup.
Nico Hoerner (CHC) Under 1.5 Hits (-217)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
As the Cubs host the Mets on Friday, all eyes will be on Nico Hoerner, but this might not be the night for him to shine at the plate. He’s facing a tough Mets pitching staff that’s been lighting up the strikeout charts recently; they’re not only adept at limiting hits but have also seen Hoerner struggle against right-handed pitchers like Tylor Megill, who gets the nod for New York.
Hoerner’s recent form has been shaky, with averages dipping against quality arms. Plus, the Cubs are currently mired in a slump, scoring just over three runs per game in their last series. With Megill’s ability to keep hitters off balance, it’s hard to envision Hoerner racking up more than one hit. The under on 1.5 hits feels like a smart play here, especially against a Mets team that’s been consistently stifling opposing lineups.